Last Friday, October 13, the coastal city of Piriápolis was the scene of an emotional meeting that brought together more than 400 rural and agricultural women, together with national and departmental authorities. The occasion marked the celebration of the International Day of Rural Women and the progress of the National Plan for Gender in Agricultural Policies (PNG Agro).
The important role of women in agriculture and livestock activities
The event was attended by the general director of the Ministry of Livestock, Agriculture and Fisheries (MGAP), Fernanda Maldonado, the national director of Tourism, Roque Baudean, and the mayor of Maldonado, Enrique Antía.
Fernanda Maldonado expressed her gratitude to the rural women for their dedication and energy, highlighting their commitment to the PNG Agrowhich consists of 83 commitments aimed at achieving women's empowerment.
Among the most important actions of PNG Agro are a guarantee fund for rural women, a digital inclusion program benefiting 3,000 women, and productive projects with significant investment. In addition, the program "Manage your Life"The purpose of the project is to grant rural women a driver's license, promoting their autonomy and mobility.
An essential element of the Agro NGP is to reduce inequalities in access to resources and recognition in rural areas, the agricultural sector and fisheries. The participatory perspective is considered crucial to achieving this objective.
An important point highlighted by Maldonado was the growth in inter-institutional involvement, with the participation of 50 institutions compared to 25 the previous year. In addition, the collaboration of departmental governments was reported.
The day began with a series of workshops that addressed vital issues such as agroecology, climate change, family farming, economic autonomy and agricultural awareness. The institutions that make up the PNG Agro shared their achievements and concrete actions at an accountability table.
The commitment of the Uruguayan State
The event was attended by the Secretary of the Presidency, Álvaro Delgado, the Ministers of Labor and Housing, Pablo Mieres and Raúl Lozano, respectively, and the Director of the National Women's Institute, Mónica Bottero, the President of the National Development Agency, Carmen Sánchez, among other authorities.
The Deputy Director of Rural Development, Mercedes Antía, shared her excitement for the intense day of work and highlighted the collaboration of many people in the realization of the plan.
According to the Secretary of the Presidency, Álvaro Delgado, the State's commitment to equality and growth includes improving connectivity and internet access in rural areas, as exemplified by the efforts on Route 6 and the connection of high schools and rural schools. Delgado also emphasized the fundamental role of women in the integration of these policies in families.
This meeting celebrated the strength and dedication of rural women, highlighting the advances in equity in rural and agricultural areas in Uruguay.
